Randall Cobb

Biography

Randall "Tex" Cobb, born on December 10, 1953, in Bridge City, Texas, became one of the most colourful and rugged characters in boxing history. Known for his indestructible chin and larger-than-life personality, Cobb was a relentless brawler who transitioned from martial arts to boxing, sharing the ring with some of the most formidable heavyweights of his time. His career extended beyond the ropes, becoming a notable actor in Hollywood movies.

Cobb grew up in Abilene, Texas, where he played football at Abilene High School before briefly attending Abilene Christian University. After dropping out at 19, he began training in karate, earning a black belt and venturing into full-contact kickboxing. He made his professional kickboxing debut in 1975 and amassed a 9-2 record with nine knockouts before turning to boxing in 1977, debuting with a second-round KO victory over Pedro Vega.

A natural brawler with an iron chin, Cobb quickly built a reputation as a fearsome competitor. He won 13 consecutive fights by knockout early in his career, including an eighth-round stoppage of the hard-punching Earnie Shavers in 1980. Though he lacked finesse, Cobb's toughness made him a durable contender in a heavyweight era brimming with talent. His bouts against top opponents, including Ken Norton, Michael Dokes, and Leon Spinks, highlighted his resilience even in defeat.

Cobb's most notable fight came on November 26, 1982, when he challenged Larry Holmes for the WBC and lineal heavyweight titles at the Astrodome in Houston, Texas. Entering as a massive underdog, Cobb endured a brutal 15-round battering, losing by unanimous decision with two scorecards reading 150-135. His ability to absorb Holmes' punishing blows without faltering was astonishing and disturbing. The fight's one-sided nature prompted broadcaster Howard Cosell to quit covering boxing, with Cobb humorously claiming the achievement as his greatest contribution to the sport.

Although he never claimed a world title, Cobb remained a beloved figure in boxing due to his gritty style and self-deprecating humour. He returned to kickboxing in 1984 to challenge John Jackson for the PKA Heavyweight Title, losing by decision. Back in the boxing ring, he faced a rough patch in the mid-1980s, including the only knockout loss of his career to Dee Collier. He later enjoyed a 20-fight unbeaten streak against lower-tier opponents before retiring in 1993.

Cobb's personality and charisma found a home in Hollywood, where he appeared in films like Raising Arizona, Ace Ventura: Pet Detective, and The Champ. Frequently cast as a menacing or comedic figure, Cobb became a staple in action films and television. His off-screen wit and charm endeared him to fans, while his resilience in the ring earned him respect among boxing purists.

Outside the ring, Cobb faced challenges, including personal tragedy with the loss of his eldest son, Bo, in 2001. However, he found a new chapter in education, graduating magna cum laude from Temple University in 2008 with a degree in sport and recreation management. Reflecting on his achievements, Cobb continued to exhibit the determination and humour that defined his life.